Why protect it?

WATER

Our bodies are made up of 66% water. Water is an essential nutrient that is involved with every function of the body. We need water in order to grow the food that we eat. Simply put, water is the source of life, and a watershed that protects our water is the key to life. How much is a healthy life worth to you?

Remember: a healthy forest = fresh, clean water

NATIVE SPECIES AND ECOSYSTEMS

Native Ecosystem The watershed comprises some of Hawaii’s richest remaining native forest that is habitat for the world’s greatest concentration of endangered birds, as well as several plant and invertebrate species found nowhere else in the world.

The rainforests in East Maui are one of the last great strongholds for the native plants and animals that greeted the first Hawaiians over 1,500 years ago. These areas, such as the Hanawi Natural Area Reserve are recognized as one of the most important conservation areas in the state.

CULTURE

Planting Taro, image by Varez The native forest is of great cultural significance as the home of plants and animals important in Hawaiian culture and of folklore and traditions based on ancient relationships with the land. Ahupua’a, the closest Hawaiian equivalent to a watershed, contained nearly all the resources Hawaiians required for survival. Fresh water resources were managed carefully for drinking, bathing, and irrigation. Wild and cultivated plants provided food, clothing, household goods, canoes, weapons and countless other useful products. Many land and sea creatures are utilized for food and also provided bones, teeth, and skin, as well as feathers for tools, crafts, and ornamentation. For more information, pick up “Life in Early Hawai’i: The Ahupua’a” from Kamehameha Schools Press.

Tire Tracks?
Nope. They're
Turtle Tracks!

Protecting the watershed means clean water for humans, plants, birds AND aquatic life. A healthy native forest keeps soil from washing into the ocean and polluting the water.